// ORBITAL LOGISTICS AND PROPULSION TERM
Satellite Bus
The main structural and functional part of a satellite that houses all the essential subsystems like power, propulsion, and communication, before the mission-specific payload is added.
TECHNICAL DEFINITION
A Satellite Bus is the generic infrastructure of a spacecraft, comprising the core subsystems (e.g., power, propulsion, attitude control, thermal control, command and data handling, structure) that support the mission-specific payload, providing standardized interfaces for integration.
BACKGROUND
Starlink is a satellite internet constellation operated by Starlink Services, LLC, an international telecommunications provider that is a wholly owned subsidiary of American aerospace company SpaceX, providing coverage to around 150 countries and territories. It also aims to provide global mobile broadband. Starlink has been instrumental to SpaceX's growth.
READ MORE ON WIKIPEDIASYNONYMS & ALIASES
- Spacecraft bus
- Satellite platform
- Core satellite
USAGE NOTE
Satellite manufacturers often offer standardized satellite buses that can be customized with different payloads.
DEVELOPERS
Organizations developing technology related to Satellite Bus.
A global security and aerospace company that develops and manufactures a wide range of satellite buses for various missions, including telecommunications, navigation, weather, and scientific research.
A multinational corporation that designs, manufactures, and sells satellites and satellite buses for commercial, civil, and military applications, particularly known for its geostationary satellite platforms.
A European leader in space technology, providing comprehensive satellite solutions, including standardized and custom satellite bus platforms for Earth observation, telecommunications, and science missions.
Known for its space infrastructure and Earth intelligence capabilities, Maxar designs and builds high-performance satellite buses for Earth observation, communication, and on-orbit servicing missions.
A global aerospace and defense technology company that develops and manufactures advanced satellite buses for various government and commercial customers, supporting critical national security and scientific endeavors.
A leading provider of small satellite platforms and mission solutions, specializing in compact, cost-effective satellite buses for Earth observation, telecommunications, and technology demonstration.
Specializes in small satellite solutions, offering design, production, and operation of advanced satellite buses and complete spacecraft for a wide range of commercial and government applications.
A joint venture between Thales and Leonardo, recognized as a major European player in space, providing satellite buses for telecommunications, Earth observation, navigation, and scientific missions.
Known for its Starlink constellation, SpaceX designs and mass-produces its own high-performance, cost-effective satellite buses for its global broadband internet service, integrating advanced propulsion and communication systems.